France Implements Total ban on Tobacco Products for New Generation
Paris, France – France has enacted a groundbreaking law prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to anyone born after 2010, effectively creating a “smoke-free generation.” The legislation, approved by the French Parliament, aims to drastically reduce tobacco use and associated health risks among young people.
The sweeping ban, which will incrementally restrict access to cigarettes and other tobacco products as the targeted generation ages, represents one of the most aggressive anti-tobacco measures globally. It’s a response to the continued public health burden of smoking, which remains a leading cause of preventable death. The law’s passage has sparked debate across Europe, with some nations considering similar measures and others voicing concerns about individual liberties and potential economic impacts.
Sweden‘s foreign Minister Benjamin Dousa has voiced strong opposition to the French ban, describing it as “very intrusive.” “This type of very intrusive total ban we think goes too far,” Dousa told Aftonbladet. He expressed concern that France’s approach could influence future EU tobacco legislation. sweden has consistently advocated for the consideration of snuff as a potentially less harmful choice to cigarettes, citing its lower tobacco-related mortality rate compared to many other EU countries.
Dousa stated he is actively engaging with other EU trade ministers on the issue. “We are in close contact with other EU countries on this matter. I have personally picked it up with several other trading ministers,” he said. The outcome of these discussions could considerably shape the future of tobacco control policies across the European Union.
